Martin School of Public Policy and Administration Building a Community of Policy Leaders

Apply Now! We're Moving in 2025!

At the Martin School, we believe that studying public policy is one of the most powerful ways for students to turn their passions for leadership, service and advocacy into careers that make a difference. Our public policy program prepares students for a wide range of meaningful career paths — whether in law, government, nonprofit leadership, policy research, communications or other fields. Our graduates leave with the critical thinking, analytical and communication skills needed to succeed in today’s fast-paced world. Many also continue their education in law school or other graduate programs.

7:1 Students to Faculty

Close instruction with a diverse faculty is at the core of our educational commitment.

#4 Public Budgeting and Finance

We have ranked highly in US News and World Report for years.

$6.5M $6.5 Million in grant funding in the last five years!

Our faculty deliver ground-breaking research at the highest levels.

#26 Public Affairs graduate programs

according to US World and News Report 2024

Academic Programs

All Programs Online, Certificates, Undergraduate Minor, & more!

You can earn Master's degree or Certificate at your own pace, online. Our programs are designed to meet you where you are, and train you to launch a career in public service.

Bachelor of Arts in Public Policy B.A.

A major or minor in Public Policy will give you the skills you need to offer applied, analytical solutions that impact the world.

Master of Public Administration M.P.A.

Master the skills required for advanced careers across the public administration, government, nonprofit management, and public affairs opportunities.

Master of Public Policy M.P.P.

Master applied analytical solutions to further analyze policy and use data to drive progress within an organization. This degree is ideal for those wanting to advance professionally and practically.

Master of Public Financial Management M.P.F.M.

Designed in mind with professionals who are currently in the workforce and hoping to gain practical skills in public budgeting and finance to advance in their career while maintaining employment.

PhD in Public Policy and Administration Ph.D.

This degree is designed for those who are interested in carrying out sophisticated policy research and meaningful careers in academia, government agencies, and organizations of their choosing.

Latest News

Main Street Clean Sweep

Apr 16, 2024, 3:00 – 5:00 PM

Bluegrass Greensource needs your help this Earth Week for our eleventh annual Main Street Clean Sweep. UK's Martin School is hosting a cleanup on Tuesday, April 16th at 3 - 5 p.m. starting at Willy T Young Library.

2024 Graduation Reception

May 2, 2024, 4:00 – 6:00 PM

Join us on Thursday, May 2nd to celebrate our newest Martin School graduates! All students graduating this year are encouraged to attend and be recognized. We will have light refreshments and a photographer, plus a super brief program to acknowledge our graduates' achievements. Families, partners, and children are all welcome. If you have any questions, please contact Brooke Kuerzi or Suzy Wampler.

Jim Host, KY Public Service Hall of Fame, Kate Shanks, Distinguished Alumna, 2024

2024 Kentucky Public Service Hall of Fame and Distinguished Alumni Banquet

Apr 26, 2024, 5:00 – 7:00 PM

Alumna Crystal Staley acknowledged as a 'Disruptor' during Women's History Month

Rick Spencer Mar 28, 2024

Crystal Staley, MPA 2007, was among the six women acknowledged as "industry disruptors" in a recent piece by Brandon Brown and Lindsey Piercy for UKNOW about UK talent during Women's History Month. They write, "A 2007 graduate of the Martin School of Public Policy and Administration, she has served in various roles in state government for the past 17 years. And since 2019, Staley has held the title of communications director for Gov. Andy Beshear."

Dr. Rhonda Trautman speaks to Owensboro Non-Profit Coalition

Mar 27, 2024

Dr. Rhonda Trautman spoke to a group of local leaders of non-profit organizations in Owensboro Ky February 21st at the Tapscott Chapel in the Barnard-Jones Administration Building at Kentucky Wesleyan College. Dr. Trautman's 90 minute talk, "Putting Your Strategic Plan into Action,” addressed challenges leaders might face as they seek to make positive impacts on their communities.

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Upcoming Events

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